Adhadhu's Hassan accused of 5 criminal offences over documentary

Police on Wednesday accused Hassan Mohamed, editor of Adhadhu, of five criminal offences in connection with a documentary published by the outlet containing allegations against President Mohamed Muizzu.

Hassan was summoned to the Sergeant Adam Haleem Criminal Investigation Building for questioning.

After the interview, his lawyer Sayyah Khalil said the allegations relate to Hassan’s involvement in publishing the documentary.

He said Hassan denied the allegations and exercised his constitutional right to remain silent.

“On behalf of Hassan, it was highlighted regarding this case that freedom of the press and freedom of expression, as well as the right not to be compelled to disclose the source of such expression, are rights guaranteed by the Constitution,” Sayyah said.

“This is a clear attempt to obstruct the freedom of the press.”

According to the legal warning notice issued before questioning, police cited the following alleged offences:

While Hassan was questioned in the morning, Adhadhu chief executive Hussain Fiyaz Moosa was scheduled to appear later in the day.

The passports of both Hassan and Fiyaz have been withheld under court orders after police cited intelligence reports alleging they might leave the country.

Police searched Adhadhu’s office on Monday night under a court warrant and seized electronic equipment, including laptops used by journalists.

The action has drawn criticism from the Maldives Journalists Association and international press freedom groups.

Adhadhu released the documentary, titled Aisha, on 28 March. It featured an anonymous woman claiming to have worked at the President’s Office and making allegations against President Muizzu.

During a press conference on Monday, President Muizzu described the claims as “absolute lies”.

“I request all relevant authorities to prosecute all parties who spread these falsehoods,” he said.